Amanda Knox is free from prison. Her next task is to be free from the more than $1 million in legal bills.

Such is the price of freedom.

According to Associated Press reports, Knox’s parents each took out second mortgages on their homes and drained their retirement accounts to pay for the lawyers and experts necessary to secure her successful appeal. Her grandmother, Elizabeth Huff, took out a a $250,000 loan as well.

The effort was worth it, Huff said” We are happy; we are elated.”

Fortunately, it’s likely that Amanda will be able to help wipe out the debts. The story of her ordeal will command top dollar from television, book publishers and probably movie studios.

And why not?

How often does a college junior get caught up in a nightmare such as suffered by Amanda Knox? The story will resonate with parents everywhere.

Amanda’s U.S. attorney says that none of that matters for now. Her parents and friends are just thrilled that she’s free.

We join with them in saying, Welcome home.

– Craig Groshart, Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter